Bruree Lower Castle

Bruree Lower Castle, sometimes also known as Lotteragh Castle, lies west of the village of Bruree, in County Limerick, in Ireland.

The village of Bruree actually has 2 castles; this one and Bruree Upper Castle, of which the latter one is the youngest.

Bruree Lower Castle probably dates back to the 12th century and has even been described as Ireland's oldest stone castle. Tradition has it that this castle was originally an O'Donovan stronghold, but that they were driven out by the Norman De Lacys, who then added towers to the fortification. It was held by the De Lacys until 1641.

The castle was built on a low natural rise in a plain, next to the River Maigue. What remains today is part of the east curtain wall attached to a 16-meter high square tower, which looks like it might have been a gate tower. Originally the castle is said to have had a circular plan and a total of 3 towers; the present one, one on the northwest side and one on the south side. In 1826, the south tower was already completely destroyed and the northwest one very ruinous.

At present, Bruree Lower Castle is situated on the premises of a private residence and small farm. So, it can only be visited with permission from the owner. I liked the ruin a lot.

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